How Often Should Brake Fluid and Coolant Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Brake fluid should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers or 2 years, while coolant should be replaced every 4 years or 60,000 kilometers. As different vehicle models may vary, please refer to your vehicle's maintenance manual for specific intervals. Brake fluid is a functional liquid used in automotive hydraulic braking systems to transmit pressure, enabling wheel brakes to perform their stopping function. It exists within the vehicle's hydraulic braking system and plays a crucial role as the transmission medium for braking force. Coolant, whose full name is antifreeze coolant, refers to a cooling liquid with antifreeze properties that prevents the coolant from freezing during cold winter parking, which could otherwise cause radiator rupture or engine cylinder block/head damage due to expansion. Antifreeze is one of its characteristics, but another important function is to regulate engine temperature, preventing damage from overheating.
I've been driving for over a decade and always remember to change the brake fluid every two years. I once got lazy about it and nearly rear-ended someone because the fluid absorbs moisture, making the brakes sluggish and prone to oxidation. Coolant isn't as urgent—I check its concentration every four years or so and replace it if it's below standard or turns cloudy. It prevents freezing, corrosion, and overheating in summer. But it really depends on your car's condition and the manual. Since I often drive on mountain roads, I change it more frequently. Don't wait for problems to arise before fixing them—small maintenance costs save big trouble. There's also a misconception that just adding water is enough, but a proper mix works best.
I started paying attention to these things shortly after buying my car. I change the brake fluid quite frequently, usually every two years or so, as my friend mentioned it absorbs moisture and affects braking distance. Coolant lasts longer—I consulted a mechanic who said it can be replaced every three to five years, but for new cars, just check the freezing point in the first year. For safety, don’t delay too long. To save on costs, I choose reputable shops for peace of mind. Daily driving requires attention to temperature changes, as fluids degrade easily. In winter, frozen coolant cracking the engine is terrifying. A money-saving tip is to refer to the manual and consider mileage.
